Planning a weekend away in 2017?

If you're looking for somewhere picturesque, easy to get to and full of culture then look no further. Forget about Brussels and ditch Antwerp because Bruges has got everything you could possibly want. Founded in 1128, the city of Bruges has tonne of culture, history and amazing architecture to explore, and that's not even mentioning the mouth-watering food you'll get to enjoy during your trip. Here's how to make the most of a weekend trip to the 'Venice of the North.' Eat waffles And lots of them. Belgium is famous for its culinary delights and their waffles really are as amazing as they look. For the best waffles in the city head to Cafe au Lait on Noordzandstraat 28. It can get very busy so be prepared to wait for a table but trust me they are definitely worth it.

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Cruise the river Bruges is built along a series of canals so the best way to see the city is to take a  short boat tour. They are relatively cheap (about €7) and run all day so there is no need to book in advance. Simply sit back, relax and take in the views. It's the perfect stress-free way to see the sites.

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 Try the frites There is an ongoing debate over who created the humble chip, Belgium or France, so it's only right that you sample what Bruges has to offer. Make sure you smoother them with mayo, get them wrapped up to go and find a good spot along the canal to watch the world go by.

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Mull around the Markt Bruges' medieval square should definitely be at the top of your to-do list. The Markt is full of colourful buildings, horse-drawn carts and museums. To get the best views climb the 83m high Belfry in the square. The tower has a total of 366 steps and was once originally part of the town hall. Today it is one of Bruges' most popular tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Escape to the ''Ten Wijngaerde'' béguinage If you're looking for a chilled out weekend then head to the béguinage area of Bruges to escape most of the tourists. Filled with tiny white plastered houses, cobbled courtyards and blooming daffodils in spring, this particular béguinage was founded in 1245 and it's still as lovely today.

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Have a pint Everyones knows that Belgians love their beer. Bruges even has an underground beer line that connects the Halve Maan brewery in the city's historic center with a bottling plant in the suburbs. Try a few pints of Belgium's finest at one of the many outdoor bars in the city centre.

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Call into City Hall Considering how beautiful Bruges is it's not surprising that their City Hall is out of this world. Started in 1376, the City Hall has amazing gothic architecture and 19th-century murals. It's definitely well worth a visit.

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Indulge in some chocolate I've saved the best to last. You just can't go to Bruges without sampling some of their amazing chocolates. Thankfully, there is a chocolatier on most streets and the smell of cocoa lingers all around the city. One of our favourite chocolatiers was the tiny Duman shop on Eiermarkt. Remember to always look for a chocolatier that has a kitchen in the back so that you can tell they have made them on site and don't be afraid to try the free samples. There are lots of free samples.

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